Craig Ervine to Lead Zimbabwe’s 16-Member Squad for ODI Return Against Sri Lanka

Craig Ervine to Lead Zimbabwe’s 16-Member Squad for ODI Return Against Sri Lanka

Zimbabwe Cricket has announced a 16-member squad led by Craig Ervine for their upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Sri Lanka, marking the team’s return to 50-over cricket for the first time since February.

A major headline in the squad is the return of veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor, who is set to make his ODI comeback after nearly four years. Taylor, who recently completed a ban for breaching the ICC's anti-corruption code, returned to international cricket earlier this month in the second Test against New Zealand in Bulawayo. His last ODI appearance came against Ireland in September 2021.

“We are delighted to welcome Brendan back into the fold,” said David Mutendera, Zimbabwe’s convener of selectors. “His experience and quality are invaluable, especially in pressure situations, and his presence will no doubt lift the dressing room.”

The two-match ODI series will be played in Harare on August 29 and August 31, followed by three T20Is on September 3, 6, and 7, also in Harare.

Zimbabwe’s squad features a mix of experience and youth, with the inclusion of uncapped seamer Ernest Masuku and young talents such as Clive Madande, Tony Munyonga, and Brad Evans. Mutendera emphasized that the squad has been chosen to strike a balance between “proven match-winners” and “players hungry to make their mark.”

“This mix of experience and energy will be crucial as we transition from red-ball cricket to the fast pace of ODIs,” he added.

Zimbabwe has endured a tough run in recent months, suffering heavy defeats in home Test series against South Africa and New Zealand, and losing all matches in a T20I tri-series featuring both those sides. Head coach Justin Sammons acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic.

“We’ve just come off a tough red-ball series and now it’s about adjusting to the tempo and intensity of one-day cricket,” Sammons said. “Clarity in roles will be key – each player must understand exactly what’s required. Get that right, and I believe we can compete strongly against a very disciplined Sri Lankan outfit.”

Zimbabwe Squad for ODI Series vs Sri Lanka:

  • Craig Ervine (captain)

  • Brendan Taylor

  • Sikandar Raza

  • Sean Williams

  • Blessing Muzarabani

  • Richard Ngarava

  • Ben Curran

  • Brian Bennett

  • Johnathan Campbell

  • Brad Evans

  • Trevor Gwandu

  • Wessly Madhevere

  • Clive Madande

  • Tony Munyonga

  • Ernest Masuku

  • Newman Nyamhuri

With fresh faces and the return of seasoned players, Zimbabwe will be aiming to reset their fortunes and put up a strong performance against a formidable Sri Lankan side.